Digital photography, phone cameras, and social media have created a world full of picture-takers. But are they all photographers? What roles do technical knowledge, high-tech gear, and willingness to stay abreast of current trends play? Is it artistic ability that makes a photographer? Consider the differences between a person holding a camera and a photographer.

Key Takeaways:

• In this era when photography’s so available, what makes a photographer? If “everyone is a photographer,” is anyone?
• If you think of yourself as a photographer, it probably means you are one. Maybe it sounds simplified, but really, it all comes down to this.
• I believe it’s the love for photography, constant learning and the artistic vision that make me a photographer.

“If you think of yourself as a photographer, it probably means you are one.”

http://www.diyphotography.net/age-everyone-taking-photos-makes-photographer/

A lenspen is a useful and common tool to clean a lens. The lenspen has a felt tip and a brush. Use the brush first to go around the lens and remove debris. The felt end is used to clean smudges off the glass part of the lends. A microfiber cloth can also be used. It is important to have a soft and completely non-abrasive cloth. The cloth can be used to wipe off the camera itself and the lens. Gentle baby wipes can be used for heavy soiling or dirt that is sticky or thick. A combination of the lenspen, microfiber cloth, and babywipes is the best way to keep the camera and lens clean and in good condition.

Key Takeaways:

• Cleaning a lens is easy to do, but it’s probably one of the most common questions we’ve been asked.
• The video in this article shows how we clean our lenses.
• The main tool we use to clean our lenses is a lenspen, and we also have a favourite style of micro fiber clothes.

“The main tool we use to clean our lenses is a lenspen.”

https://photographyconcentrate.com/how-to-clean-a-lens/

To improve your photography it is best to master your lighting. To master your lighting it is best to start with one light and as you learn, you can add fill light and background light. You will want the flash off the camera and, if you can, use a natural light, one that is more constant. Don’t use your cameras auto settings so you have better control of your photos. To reduce shadowing and bright lighting, keep your light at a good point above your subjects face.

Key Takeaways:

• Start with one light and build gradually.
• Use manual flash and constant light when available.
• Keep the light just above the subject’s head, unless in a scary setting.

“To take the full control over your photos, you should learn how to use fully manual settings (if you haven’t already).”

http://www.diyphotography.net/five-great-tips-help-master-portrait-lighting-improve-photography/

Minimalism has been gaining popularity in the style of homes. Twelve articles are display the usage of minimalism. Minimalism is about only using what is needed. Often white as the background on the walls sometimes in contrast to the clean background. The natural color of wood often is present in the furniture of minimalism.

Key Takeaways:

• “Less is more,” is how the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe famously described his style
• It’s not so much about “empty” homes or feeling like you can’t decorate.
• It’s about stripping away what’s unnecessary until you are left with just the things you need and that make you happy.

“It’s about stripping away what’s unnecessary until you are left with just the things you need and that make you happy.”

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/collection/modern-minimal-living-1324